Oregon Ducks Set Program Record with 40 Three-Point Attempts

UPDATE: The Oregon Ducks shattered their previous record for three-point attempts, launching a remarkable 40 shots from beyond the arc in an exhilarating 83-69 victory over South Dakota State on November 15, 2023. This performance comes after a dismal start to the season, where the Ducks struggled with just 20.5% shooting from three-point range.

In front of a crowd of 5,019 fans at Matthew Knight Arena, Oregon’s offensive surge featured contributions from multiple players. Sophomore guard Jackson Shelstad led the way with 22 points and eight assists, while Takai Simpkins added 20 points and Nate Bittle recorded a double-double with 14 points and 10 rebounds.

Despite the victory, head coach Dana Altman expressed concern about the team’s reliance on three-point shots. “That’s not us,” Altman said. “I’m not pleased with our physicality at all.” The strategy appeared reactive, as the Ducks entered the game with a dismal three-point shooting percentage, prompting opponents to pack the paint defensively.

Oregon’s record-setting attempt ties for the 25th most three-point attempts in a Division I game this season, highlighting a trend among Power Six conference teams. The Ducks previously held the record of 39 attempts during the 2017-18 season, and on this night, they managed to convert 15 of 40 attempts.

Shelstad’s shooting included 4 of 13 from three-point range, while Simpkins attempted 10 of his 11 shots from the perimeter, sinking five. Newcomer Dez Lindsay also made an impact, scoring eight points in his first career start, replacing the injured Devon Pryor, who is expected to return for Monday’s game against Oregon State.

The Ducks controlled the game for most of the night, leading for the final 33 minutes. However, they faced a brief scare when the Jackrabbits pulled within 61-60 with 8:19 remaining in the game. Oregon responded with a flurry of three-pointers from Shelstad, Kwame Evans Jr., and Simpkins, reestablishing their lead and closing the game on a 13-5 run.

As the Ducks reflect on this record-setting performance, Shelstad acknowledged a need for improvement, stating, “We’re settling way too much. When we went inside it worked out… We got to attack more, get in the paint and make plays.”

The Ducks (3-0) will need to recalibrate their strategy as they prepare for tougher opponents in the coming games. Fans will be watching closely to see if this record-breaking performance can be a turning point for the struggling three-point unit.